The Chamber of Commerce Comes to Silicon Valley

Powerful Lobby Group Tries to Win Over Startups, VCs

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, among the most powerful business lobbying organizations in Washington, is planning a second outpost in Silicon Valley in an effort to broaden its membership and clout.

The Chamber is expected to announce Tuesday that its second-in-command, David Chavern, 51, will relinquish his role as chief operating officer to lead the initiative. Mr. Chavern has been meeting with Silicon Valley entrepreneurs and leaders to both lay out the Chamber's plans and to hear ideas on how the group can best help...